Multiple arm dipole antenna for hearing instrument

Technical field of multi-arm dipole antennas for hearing instruments

[0001] The present invention relates to a hearing instrument, such as a hearing aid, such as a hearing instrument for compensating a user's hearing loss, and in particular to a hearing instrument with wireless communication capabilities, and therefore to a hearing instrument including an antenna for communication.

Background technique

[0002] In recent years, hearing instruments have become increasingly capable of communicating with the surrounding environment, including communicating with remote controllers, paired microphones, other hearing instruments, and recently also directly communicating with smart phones and other external electronic devices.

[0003] Hearing instruments are very small and sophisticated equipment. In order to meet the above requirements, the hearing instruments need to include many electronic components and metal parts contained in a housing that is small enough to fit inside or outside the ear canal of a person. Behind. Many electronic components and metal parts are combined with a small-sized hearing instrument housing, imposing high design constraints on radio frequency antennas used for hearing instruments with wireless communication capabilities. As the antenna becomes smaller in comparison with the transmitting and receiving wavelength of the electromagnetic field, there will be a basic trade-off between bandwidth and efficiency.

[0004] In addition, the antennas in hearing instruments (usually radio frequency antennas) have to be designed to achieve satisfactory battery life, good communication for all sizes and shapes of heads, ears, and hair in all environments, and have The largest possible frequency bandwidth, despite the space limitations and other design constraints imposed by the size of the hearing instrument.

Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to overcome at least some of the above-mentioned shortcomings, and a further object is to provide a hearing instrument capable of wireless communication.

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a hearing instrument, the hearing instrument comprising a microphone for receiving sound and converting the received sound into a corresponding first audio signal; a signal processor for converting the The first audio signal is processed into a second audio signal that compensates for the hearing loss of the user of the hearing instrument; a speaker connected to the output terminal of the signal processor is used to convert the second audio signal into an output sound signal; Configure a wireless communication unit for wireless data communication; and an antenna for transmitting or receiving electromagnetic fields. The antenna includes a first antenna element and a plurality of further antenna elements. The first antenna element includes a first branch and a second branch. The first branch and the second branch are interconnected with the wireless communication unit. The first branch includes a first connection area and the second branch includes a second connection area. Wherein each of the plurality of further antenna elements interconnects the first connection area and the second connection area.

[0007] The wireless communication unit is configured for wireless communication, including wireless data communication, and, in this regard, with an antenna for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic fields. The wireless communication unit may include a transmitter, a receiver, a transmitter-receiver pair, such as a transceiver, a radio unit, and so on. The wireless communication unit can be configured to communicate using any protocol known to those skilled in the art, including Bluetooth, including Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth Smart, etc., WLAN standards, manufacturer-specific protocols, such as customized proximity antenna protocols, such as Proprietary protocols, such as low-power wireless communication protocols, such as CSR grids, etc.

[0008] The hearing instrument may be any hearing instrument, such as any hearing instrument or hearing aid that compensates for the hearing loss of the user of the hearing instrument, or, for example, any hearing instrument that provides sound to the user.

[0009] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of additional antenna elements forms a resonant antenna junction with the first antenna element.

Structure.

[0010] In some embodiments, the plurality of additional antenna elements includes at least a second and a third antenna element. In addition, the plurality of additional antenna elements may also include a fourth antenna element, a fifth antenna element, and so on.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first branch has a first feed area connected to the first feed of the antenna, and the second branch has a second feed area connected to the second feed of the antenna. The first feeding area is arranged along the first end of the first branch. The second feeding area is arranged along the first end of the second branch.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first branch and the second branch of the first antenna element may be connected to the wireless communication unit, and both branches are driven conductors.

[0013] The first branch and the second branch are interconnected with the wireless communication unit via the first and second transmission lines. The first transmission line and the second transmission line may be non-radiative transmission lines. The first transmission line and the second transmission line may be configured to minimize electromagnetic radiation emitted from the first and second transmission lines. The first transmission line and the second transmission line may be balanced transmission lines. Therefore, the current of the first feed from the wireless communication unit to the first branch and the current of the second feed to the second branch may have substantially the same amplitude but travel in opposite directions, thereby establishing a balanced feeder line. It is assumed that the current amplitude may not be exactly the same, so some radiation from the feeder may occur, although most of it is undesirable.

[0014] The first branch includes a first connection area and the second branch includes a second connection area. Each of the plurality of further antenna elements interconnects the first connection area and the second connection area. The first connection area may be provided at the second end of the first branch. The second connection area may be provided at the second end of the second branch.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first end of at least one of the plurality of additional antenna elements, for example the first end of each of the plurality of additional antenna elements, is connected to the first connection area. The second end of at least one of the plurality of additional antenna elements, for example each of the plurality of additional antenna elements, may be connected to the second connection area. At least one of the first antenna element and the plurality of additional antenna elements may form a loop. Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements connected to the first and second connection areas of the first antenna element may form a loop.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first connection area is separated from the first feeding area by a first distance, and the second connection area is separated from the second feeding area by a second distance. The distance can be measured along the antenna element. The first distance and the second distance may be the same distance. The first distance may be similar to, for example, the same length as the second distance. For example, the first distance may correspond to the second distance +/-10%. Alternatively, the first distance may be different from the second distance. In some embodiments, the feeding area may coincide with the connection area.

[0017] The first and second branches may be similar or identical in form and/or shape, or the first and second branches may be different in form and/or shape. In some embodiments, the first and second branches may form a dipole antenna.

[0018] In some embodiments, the length of the first branch of the first antenna element may correspond to a first distance, such as a distance measured along the first antenna element. The first distance may be measured from the first connection area to the first feeding area (for example, from the center of the first connection area to the center of the first feeding area). The length of the second branch of the first antenna element may correspond to a second distance, for example a distance measured along the first antenna element. The second distance may be measured from the second connection area to the second feeding area (for example, from the center of the second connection area to the center of the second feeding area).

[0019] In some embodiments, the first connection area is separated from the first feeding area by a first distance. The second connection area may be separated from the second feed area by a second distance, where the distance is measured along the antenna element.

[0020] Generally, when the hearing instrument is located at the intended operating position of the user's ear, the length of the antenna element is defined relative to the wavelength λ of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the hearing instrument. It should be noted that for the antenna to be resonated, the length of the resonant element is selected to correspond to a multiple of one quarter (λ/4) of the wavelength λ of the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the hearing instrument. For connections with

Two branched antennas to the wireless communication unit, for example two driven conductors, such as dipole antennas, usually the length of the two branches corresponds to a quarter wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the hearing instrument.

[0021] Hearing instruments are generally configured to emit and receive electromagnetic radiation in a specific frequency range or frequency band. In some embodiments, the frequency band is set to include the resonant frequency of the antenna element. Generally, the length of the antenna element is optimized for use within a specific frequency band, for example, in a frequency band around the peak resonance frequency or a frequency band extending from the peak resonance frequency.

[0022] Generally, the length of the antenna element is selected to optimize the antenna for use in a specific frequency or a specific frequency band, for example, to be selected to provide an optimal resonance at a specific frequency (for example, within a desired frequency band). Generally, antennas are optimized for ISM frequency bands, including cellular and WLAN frequency bands, such as GSM frequency band or WLAN frequency band.

[0023] The frequency band may be a frequency band including a frequency selected from the following frequencies, for example, including 433 MHz, 800 MHz, 915 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz, and the like. Therefore, the frequency band can be selected as the ISM frequency band, the GSM frequency band, or the WLAN frequency band including any one or more of these frequencies.

[0024] The hearing instruments disclosed herein may be configured to operate in the ISM frequency band. Preferably, the antenna is configured to operate at a frequency of at least 400 MHz, such as at least 800 MHz, such as at least 1 GHz, such as a frequency between 1.5 GHz and 6 GHz, such as a frequency between 1.5 GHz and 3 GHz, such as a frequency of 2.4 GHz. The antenna may be optimized for operation at frequencies between 400MHz and 6GHz, for example between 400MHz and 1GHz, between 800MHz and 1GHz, between 800MHz and 6GHz, between 800MHz and 3GHz, etc.

[0025] However, it is envisaged that the hearing instrument disclosed herein is not limited to operation in such a frequency band, and the hearing instrument may be configured to operate in any frequency band.

[0026] Therefore, in some embodiments, the antenna is configured to transmit and receive electromagnetic fields having a transceiving wavelength λ. The first distance and/or the second distance may be between one-eighth (1/8) and three-eighth (3/8) of the transmitting and receiving wavelength λ. It is known to those skilled in the art that the transmitting and receiving wavelengths in the hearing instrument are related to the dielectric constant of the material of the hearing instrument.

[0027] In some embodiments, the antenna is configured to transmit and receive electromagnetic fields having a transceiving wavelength (λ). The length of each antenna element may correspond to half the length of the transmitting and receiving wavelength, that is, λ/2, for example, about half of the transmitting and receiving wavelength, for example, +/-10% of the transmitting and receiving wavelength λ.

[0028] In some embodiments, the hearing instrument has a first side and a second side. The first side and the second side may be two opposite sides of the hearing instrument. In some embodiments, the first side may be a side surface of the hearing instrument that is configured to be parallel to the user's head when the hearing instrument is set in its intended operating position. The first side may be the side of the hearing instrument adjacent to the user's head. For example, the first side may be the longitudinal side behind the ear module, and the first side may be the side adjacent to the user's head. Likewise, the first side may be an end surface in the ear module, and the first side may be a side surface of the ear module facing the inner ear of the user.

[0029] The second side may be the side of the hearing instrument furthest from the user's head. For example, the second side may be the longitudinal side behind the ear module. The second side may be the side of the earlobe facing the ear. Likewise, the second side may be an end face in the ear module, and the second side may be a side face of the ear module facing the user's surrounding environment. The second side can be a panel in the ear module.

[0030] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of additional antenna elements, such as a second antenna element, such as a third antenna element, extends from the first side to the second side. Therefore, at least each of the second and third antenna elements may extend from the first side to the second side.

[0031] The first branch includes a first connection area and the second branch includes a second connection area, and in some embodiments, the first connection area is provided on the first side of the hearing instrument, and the second connection area is provided on the hearing instrument The second side.

The first connection area may be provided on a side opposite to the second connection area.

[0032] Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements interconnects the first connection area and the second connection area, and in some embodiments, each of the plurality of additional antenna elements, including at least the second and third The antenna element extends from the first side to the second side such that at least a first part of each of the additional antenna elements including at least the second and third antenna elements extends from the first side to the second side of the hearing instrument. The midpoint of each of the additional antenna elements, including at least the second and third antenna elements, is provided at the first portion of the antenna element extending from the first side to the second side. The midpoint of each of the other antenna elements may be a quarter of the transmit and receive wavelength, for example, about one quarter of the transmit and receive wavelength, for example, one quarter of the transmit and receive wavelength (λ) from each connection area +/ -10%, for example, from the distance corresponding to a quarter (λ/4) of the transmitting and receiving wavelength λ (such as about one-fourth of the transmitting and receiving wavelength, such as one-fourth of the transmitting and receiving wavelength +/-10%) and each Separated by a connection area. The distance and/or wavelength separating the midpoint of each additional antenna element from the first connection area and/or the second connection area can be measured along each of the additional antenna elements.

[0033] In some embodiments, the midpoint of the additional antenna element, including at least the second and third antenna elements, is where each of the additional antenna elements (including at least the second and third antenna elements ) The distance to the first connection area and the second connection area are respectively the same position. Therefore, the midpoint of another antenna element is, for example, a location, such as a position of a point, where the distances from each of the other antenna elements to the first connection area and the second connection area are respectively similar (e.g., approximately the same, for example, Class comparison).

[0034] In some embodiments, the antenna is configured such that during the intended operation, the current traveling through the antenna has the largest amplitude in or near the first portion of each of the additional antenna elements, the first portion being included in the transmitting At least second and third antenna elements extending from the first side to the second side of the hearing instrument during the electromagnetic field. Advantageously, the current traveling through the antenna has the largest amplitude in or near the first part of each of the additional antenna elements, which first part extends from the first side to the second side of the hearing instrument during the transmission of the electromagnetic field, because This provides that the maximum high current part of the antenna structure is arranged in the direction of the user's inter-aural axis, that is, the high current part of the antenna is arranged in the direction pointing away from the user's head, for example, when the hearing instrument is set in the user's ear When the intended operating position is in the middle or behind the ears, the direction is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the side of the user's head. This is advantageous because it provides an increased electromagnetic field traveling around the user's head, for example, more effectively around the user's head, and therefore can provide robust and low-loss wireless data communication.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first branch extends along the first side and the first connection area is disposed at the first side, and the second branch extends along the second side and the second connection area may be disposed at the second side . The first branch and the second branch of the first antenna element may extend along opposite sides of the hearing instrument. The first connection area and the second connection area of the first antenna element may be arranged on opposite sides of the hearing instrument.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first branch extending along the first side and the second branch extending along the second side have similar shapes and/or forms, such as zigzag shapes and/or forms, such as geometric shapes and/ Or form, such as coiled shape and/or form. The first branch and the second branch may be symmetrical branches such that the shape and/or shape of the first branch corresponds to the form and/or shape of the second branch. Alternatively, the first branch extending along the first side and the second branch extending along the second side may have different (for example, dissimilar, for example, different) shapes and/or forms, such as zigzag shapes and/or forms, such as Geometric shapes and/or shapes, such as coiled shapes and/or shapes.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first antenna element and at least two of the plurality of further antenna elements are wrapped with each other, for example arranged side by side with each other, for example tracked in a similar pattern, for example, tracked side by side in a similar pattern, for example in a similar pattern. Pattern tracking, while the other antenna elements maintain a constant distance, such as a substantially constant distance between each other, such as rolled up

Together, for example, fold each other. The pattern can be a zigzag pattern, a circular pattern, an elliptical pattern, any pattern that allows a compact antenna structure, and so on. The compact antenna structure may be an antenna structure that reduces the overall size of the antenna structure, and preferably reduces the area covered by the antenna structure by 50%, for example, by 75% relative to a non-compact (for example, longitudinal) pattern.

[0038] The plurality of additional antenna elements includes at least a second and a third antenna element. In some embodiments, it is advantageous for the first antenna element and at least two of the plurality of further elements to wrap around each other, as this reduces the size of the antenna. Another advantage is that the current flowing in the wrapped antenna element can be better aligned, and for example, the current vector reflecting the magnitude and direction of the current can be better aligned, thereby maximizing the current vector alignment. In addition, in some embodiments, a further advantage is that the resonant frequency of copper traces of the same length can be reduced, thereby allowing a small antenna structure, while maintaining a small resonant frequency of the antenna structure, such as the desired, for example, optimum of the antenna. The resonant frequency.

[0039] In some embodiments, each of the additional antenna elements, including at least a second and a third antenna element, has a second portion extending from the first connection area along the first side of the hearing instrument. In some embodiments, each of the additional antenna elements, including at least a second and a third antenna element, has a third portion extending from the second connection area along the second side of the hearing instrument.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the additional antenna element, such as the second portion of one or more of the additional antenna elements, are in a zigzag form and/or shape The arrangement and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and the third part of the further antenna element are arranged in a zigzag form and/or shape. In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second part of the additional antenna element, such as the second part of one or more of the additional antenna elements, are arranged in a coiled form, such as a spiral form, For example, a spiral form, such as a coiled form, such as a twisted form, etc., and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and the third part of the other antenna element, such as the third part of one or more of the other antenna elements It is arranged in a coiled form, such as a spiral form, such as a spiral form, such as a coiled form, such as a twisted form, and the like. Therefore, the size of the antenna can be reduced. In addition, the current vector indicating the magnitude and direction of the current flowing in the antenna element can be better aligned, thereby maximizing the current vector alignment. In addition, it can reduce the resonant frequency of copper traces of the same length, thereby allowing a small antenna structure while maintaining a small resonant frequency of the antenna structure, such as the desired, for example, optimal resonant frequency of the antenna.

[0041] The first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the plurality of additional antenna elements, for example one or more of the plurality of additional antenna elements, may be combined with the second branch of the first antenna element and the plurality of The third part of the other antenna element has the same or similar shape and form, including the same or similar length, the same or similar geometric shape, and so on. Alternatively, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second part of the plurality of additional antenna elements, such as one or more of the plurality of additional antenna elements, may be combined with the second branch of the first antenna element and the plurality of additional antenna elements. The third part of the antenna element has different shapes and forms, including dissimilar or different lengths, dissimilar or different geometric shapes, etc.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second part of the additional antenna element, such as the second part of one or more of the additional antenna elements, are arranged in the same coiled form, So that the first branch of the first antenna element and the second part of the additional antenna element, for example one or more additional antenna elements, follow the same path, and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and the additional antenna element The third part of is arranged in the same coiled form, so that the second branch of the first antenna element and the third part of the other antenna element track the same path. Therefore, the path traced by the first branch of the first antenna element and the second part of the plurality of further antenna elements may be symmetrical to the path traced by the second branch of the first antenna element and the third part of the plurality of second antenna elements. Therefore, the hearing instrument can emit substantially the same electromagnetic field regardless of whether the hearing instrument is located in the user's right or left ear. Alternatively, the path traced by the first branch of the first antenna element and the second part of the plurality of other antenna elements may be the same as the path traced by the first antenna

The path traced by the second branch of the element and the third part of the third antenna element is asymmetric.

[0043] In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the additional antenna element are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path, and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and the other The third part of the antenna element is provided with a uniform interval along at least a part of the path. Therefore, the distance between the elements is constant along at least a part of the length of the portion.

[0044] In some embodiments, each of the additional antenna elements has approximately the same length, such as a similar length. Alternatively or in addition, the length of each of the additional antenna elements (e.g., a plurality of additional antenna elements including at least the second and third antenna elements) may be slightly different, such as slightly deviating from each other, e.g., deviating by +/-10%, For example, deviation +/5%.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first portion of at least some of the additional antenna elements, for example, a plurality of additional antenna elements including at least second and third antenna elements, are straight portions.

[0046] In some embodiments, additional antenna elements, such as multiple additional antenna elements, are arranged in different planes. Alternatively, at least some of the additional antenna elements, such as a plurality of additional antenna elements, are provided in the same plane. Alternatively, all additional antenna elements, such as a plurality of additional antenna elements, are provided in the same plane.

[0047] In some embodiments, a plurality of additional antenna elements, such as additional antenna elements including at least a second and a third antenna element, are connected in parallel. In some embodiments, the radiation resistance and antenna efficiency can be increased by connecting multiple additional antenna elements in parallel.

[0048] It has been found that the radiation resistance and antenna efficiency can be increased by interconnecting the first antenna element with a plurality of further antenna elements, such as interconnecting a wrapped first antenna element with a plurality of wrapped further antenna elements, For example, the first antenna element is interconnected with a plurality of further antenna elements, wherein at least two of the antenna elements are wrapped around each other.

[0049] The embodiments of the present disclosure can better control the basic trade-off between antenna size, bandwidth, and efficiency. In addition, it is possible to reduce the antenna size while maintaining antenna efficiency, thereby providing a smaller (for example, reduced size) antenna while maintaining (for example, maintaining, for example, maintenance) satisfactory (for example, acceptable, such as normal). , Such as standard, such as appropriate) antenna efficiency level, so as to provide a small and effective antenna.

Description of the drawings

[0050] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art through the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

[0052] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

[0053] FIGS. 3a and 3b schematically show an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

[0054] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

[0055] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

[0056] FIGS. 6a and 6b schematically show a behind-the-ear hearing instrument with an exemplary antenna according to the present disclosure,

[0057] FIGS. 7a and 7b schematically show a behind-the-ear hearing instrument with an exemplary antenna according to the present disclosure,

[0058] FIG. 8 schematically shows a 2D representation of an antenna configured for an in-ear hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

[0059] FIG. 9 schematically shows a 3D representation of an antenna configured for an in-ear hearing instrument according to the present disclosure.

[0060] List of Reference Signs

[0061] 2 Hearing Instruments

<td>[0062]</td><td>3 microphones</td>

<td>[0063]</td><td>5 speakers</td>

<td>[0064]</td><td>8 wireless communication unit</td>

<td>[0065]</td><td>9 signal processor</td>

<td>[0066]</td><td>10 antenna</td>

<td>[0067]</td><td>11 power supply</td>

<td>[0068]</td><td>12 compensation filter</td>

<td>[0069]</td><td>13 first antenna element</td>

<td>[0070]</td><td>14, 16, 17 additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0071]</td><td>18 first branch</td>

<td>[0072]</td><td>20 second branch</td>

<td>[0073]</td><td>21 substrate</td>

<td>[0074]</td><td>22 first connection area</td>

<td>[0075]</td><td>23 second connection area</td>

<td>[0076]</td><td>14 second antenna element</td>

<td>[0077]</td><td>16 third antenna element</td>

<td>[0078]</td><td>17 Fourth antenna element</td>

<td>[0079]</td><td>28 first feeder</td>

<td>[0080]</td><td>30 second feeder</td>

<td>[0081]</td><td>32 First feeding area</td>

<td>[0082]</td><td>38 second feeding area</td>

<td>[0083]</td><td>40 The first end of the first branch</td>

<td>[0084]</td><td>42 The first end of the second branch</td>

<td>[0085]</td><td>43 first distance</td>

<td>[0086]</td><td>48 second distance</td>

<td>[0087]</td><td>50 first side</td>

<td>[0088]</td><td>52 second side</td>

<td>[0089]</td><td>54.56 The first segment of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0090]</td><td>58 Third side</td>

<td>[0091]</td><td>60 top side</td>

<td>[0092]</td><td>64.66 Midpoint of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0093]</td><td>74.76 Second segment of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0094]</td><td>84.86 third segment of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0095]</td><td>100 periodic bounding box</td>

<td>[0096]</td><td>101 first boundary point</td>

<td>[0097]</td><td>102 second boundary point</td>

<td>[0098]</td><td>103 Third boundary point</td>

<td>[0099]</td><td>104 Fourth boundary point</td>

Detailed ways

[0100] In some embodiments, the hearing instrument includes at least one behind-the-ear module configured to be positioned behind the user's ear when set in its intended operating position. Traditionally, the behind-the-ear module includes at least a signal processor, a wireless communication unit, and in some embodiments, at least one antenna element. A hearing instrument battery is usually also provided behind the ear element.

[0101] The hearing instrument may be a behind-the-ear hearing instrument, wherein the behind-the-ear module includes hearing instrument components provided as a component and installed in a housing configured to be worn behind the user's ear in an operating position . Generally, the sound tube extends from the hearing instrument housing to the ear canal of the user.

[0102] The hearing instrument may be an in-ear receiver-type hearing instrument, wherein the receiver is positioned in the user's ear, such as in the ear canal, during use, for example, as part of the in-ear module, and other hearing instrument components such as a processor, A wireless communication unit, a battery, etc. are provided as a behind-the-ear module. Generally, wires/cables or tubes connect the in-ear module and the behind-the-ear module. It should be envisaged that the tube module including the tube or wire/cable may include additional hearing instrument components and connectors, and the wire/cable may be provided in the tube.

[0103] The hearing instrument may be an in-ear type or a complete ear canal type hearing instrument, wherein the hearing instrument is provided in the user's ear. Therefore, the in-ear module includes hearing instrument components, including a processor, a wireless communication unit, a battery, a microphone, and a speaker.

[0104] The in-ear module may have one or more portions that extend into the ear canal. Therefore, the in-ear module can be configured to be positioned in the ear and ear canal.

[0105] Any combination of modules as described above and any distribution of hearing instrument components between the modules can be envisaged. For example, a hearing instrument in which most of the hearing instrument components are arranged in the in-ear module may, for example, have a power source (for example, a battery), which is arranged in the behind-the-ear module and only has a power connection via the tube module. In some examples, the behind-the-ear module may also include one or more antenna elements.

[0106] For example, in some embodiments, a behind-the-ear hearing instrument may be provided, which has a behind-the-ear module, an in-ear module, and a connection between the two modules (for example, a tube module). Generally, hearing instrument components can be distributed between modules. In many hearing instruments, the receiver is located in the in-ear module. In some embodiments, the hearing instrument has an in-ear module and no behind-the-ear module. For example, the hearing instrument may be composed of an in-ear module, wherein all the parts of the hearing instrument are arranged in the in-ear module. In some embodiments, the hearing instrument has an in-ear module and an additional module interconnected to the in-ear module. The additional module may be configured to be disposed in the outer ear, for example, in the shell of the ear or in the helix of the ear. The additional module can be configured to be positioned at any position of the ear that is not behind the user's ear. Additional modules may include microphones and/or other transducer components, batteries, etc.

[0107] This and other types of hearing instruments are usually promoted under the following names, such as ITE (in-ear), RIE (in-the-ear), ITC (in-ear canal), IIC (in-ear canal), CIC (Completely In-Ear Canal), MIH (Helix Microphone), etc.

[0108] It should be understood that the speaker of the hearing instrument is also referred to as a "receiver" in the art.

[0109] Various embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals always refer to the same elements. Therefore, the same elements will not be described with respect to the description of each drawing. It should also be noted that the drawings are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, the illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or advantage described in conjunction with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment, and may also be practiced in any other embodiment, even if it is not shown as such, or if it is not explicitly described as such.

[0110] The same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding parts throughout the text.

[0111] A block diagram of an exemplary hearing instrument 2 is shown in FIG. 1. The hearing instrument 2 includes a microphone 3 for receiving input sound and converting it into an audio signal, that is, a first audio signal. The first audio signal is provided to the signal processor 9 for processing the first audio signal into a second audio signal that compensates for the hearing loss of the user of the hearing instrument 2. The speaker 5 is connected to the output terminal of the signal processor 9 for converting the second audio signal into an output sound signal, for example, a signal modified to compensate the user's hearing loss.

[0112] Therefore, the hearing instrument signal processor 9 includes elements such as amplifiers, compressors, and noise reduction systems. The hearing instrument may also have a filtering function, such as a compensation filter 12 for optimizing the output signal. The hearing instrument may also have a wireless communication unit 8 for wireless data communication interconnected with an antenna 10 for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic fields. The radio communication unit 8 (for example, a radio device or a transceiver) is connected to the hearing instrument signal processor 9 and the antenna 10 for communication with an external device, another hearing instrument (for example, another hearing instrument located in the other ear (usually) In the binaural hearing instrument system)) etc. to communicate. The hearing instrument 2 also includes a power source 11, such as a battery.

[0113] The hearing instrument may include a part configured to be disposed behind the ear of the user, the hearing instrument may include a behind-the-ear module, and the hearing instrument may be a behind-the-ear hearing instrument. Alternatively, the hearing instrument may include a portion configured to be positioned in the user's ear, the hearing instrument may include an in-ear module, and the hearing instrument may be configured as an in-ear hearing instrument.

[0114] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary antenna 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown as being provided on a flexible substrate 21, such as a flexible plastic substrate. The antenna 10 is configured to be provided in a behind-the-ear hearing instrument (not shown), for example, in a behind-the-ear module.

[0115] The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 (dash-dotted line) and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (solid line and dashed line). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 and 16 forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13. The plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 includes at least a second antenna element 14 and a third antenna element 16. However, it is conceivable that the plurality of additional antenna elements may include more than 2 antenna elements, for example 3, for example 4, for example 5, for example up to 10 additional antenna elements.

[0116] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection area 22. The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23. Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 2, the first branch 18 has a first power feeder at the first power feed region 32, and the second branch 20 has a second power feeder at the second power feed region 38. The first feeding area 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18. The second feeding area 38 is provided along the first end 42 of the second branch 20. The first power feeder and the second power feeder of the antenna 10 are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed part of the antenna may be connected to the ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed part of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, for example to the transceiver or radio device in the wireless communication unit .

[0118] The first antenna element 13, the second antenna element 14, and the third antenna element 16 are arranged in a zigzag shape and/or form, and it can be seen that the zigzag antenna pattern allows a compact antenna structure.

[0119] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 is configured to be arranged at the first section X1 of the flexible substrate 21, and the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 is configured to be arranged at the second section of the flexible substrate 21. Division X2. The bridge portion X3 of the flexible substrate is configured to interconnect the first section X1 and the second section X2 of the flexible substrate. The flexible substrate is configured to be folded around the hearing instrument, for example, around the behind-the-ear hearing instrument or the behind-a-ear module, for example, wherein the bridge portion X3 is arranged on the top side of the behind-the-ear hearing instrument or the module, and the first partition of the flexible substrate X1 and the second partition X2 are distributed along the first side and the second side

So that the partitions X1 and X2 are arranged on opposite sides of the behind-the-ear hearing instrument or the behind-the-ear module.

[0120] FIG. 3a shows an exemplary antenna 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown as being provided on a flexible substrate 21 and is configured to be provided at a behind-the-ear hearing instrument (not shown), for example, at a behind-the-ear module.

[0121] The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 (solid line) and a second antenna element 24 (dashed line). The first antenna element 13 and the second antenna element 24 are interconnected. The second antenna element 24 is configured to form a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13.

[0122] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection area 22. The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23. The second antenna element 24 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 3a, the first branch 18 has the first feeding portion of the antenna 10 at the first feeding area 32, and the second branch 20 has the second feeding portion of the antenna 10 at the second feeding area 38. Feeder. The first feeding area 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18. The second feeding area 38 is provided along the first end 42 of the second branch 20. The first power feeder of the antenna 10 and the second power feeder of the antenna 10 are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed part of the antenna may be connected to the ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed part of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, for example to the transceiver or radio device in the wireless communication unit .

[0124] The first axis 301 and the second axis 302 divide the second antenna element 24 into a first section 54, a second section 74, and a third section 84.

[0125] The flexible substrate 21 is configured to be folded around at least a part of the hearing instrument, for example, around at least a part of the behind-the-ear hearing instrument or the behind-the-ear module. In some embodiments, the first axis 301 and the second axis 302 may show the edge portion of the hearing instrument or module, such that, for example, the second segment 74 extends along the first side of the hearing instrument, and the third segment 84 extends along the hearing instrument. The other side of the instrument extends. The first side may be opposite to the second side. The first side may be a first longitudinal side of the hearing instrument, and the second side may be a second longitudinal side. The first section 54 may interconnect the second section 74 and the third section 84, and may be configured to be arranged on the top side of a hearing instrument or module, for example.

[0126] The second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 extends from the first connection area 22. The third section 84 of the second antenna element 24 extends from the second connection area 23. The first segment 54 is a linear segment, for example, a substantially linear segment. The first segment 54 connects the second segment 74 with the third segment 84.

[0127] The first antenna element 13 and the second antenna element 24 wrap each other, so that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 wrap each other, and The second branch 20 of an antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 surround each other.

[0128] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in a zigzag shape and/or form, and the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the second antenna element The third segment of 24 is arranged in a zigzag shape and/or form. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in a coiled shape and/or form. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in a coiled shape and/or form.

[0129] As shown in FIG. 3a, the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 wrap around each other, thereby providing a connection with the second branch 20 and the first antenna element 13 of the first antenna element 13. The shape and/or form of the third segment 84 of the two antenna elements 24 surrounding each other is similar and/or the shape and/or form of mirror image. Alternatively, the shape and/or form in which the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 surround each other may be different from the second branch 20 and the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 The shape and/or form of the third segment 84 of the antenna element 24 surrounding each other. It can be seen that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 wrap around each other, so that the

The first branch 18 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 follow the same or similar pattern. The first branch 18 and the second segment 74 are co-aligned so that the current vector of any current flowing through the antenna element will be co-aligned. It can be seen that the distance between the first branch 18 and the second segment 74 has the same or similar dimensions along most of the surrounding segments/elements. The distance between the first branch 18 and the second segment 74 may be uniform along most of the wrapped segments/elements (eg, along 80% of the wrapped segments/elements). After making appropriate changes, the same applies to the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24.

[0130] As shown in the figure, the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in the same coiled shape and/or form, so that the first branch of the first antenna element 13 The branch 18 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 follow the same path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in the same coiled shape and/or form, so that the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the second antenna element 24 The third segment 84 follows the same path. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are provided with a uniform distance along at least a part of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 are provided with a uniform spacing along at least a part of the path.

[0131] FIG. 3b shows an exemplary antenna 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown as being provided on a flexible substrate 21, such as a flexible plastic substrate (gray line), and is configured to be provided at a behind-the-ear hearing instrument (not shown), for example, at a behind-the-ear module.

[0132] The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 (solid line) and a plurality of additional antenna elements 24, 26. The plurality of additional antenna elements includes a second antenna element 24 (dotted line) and a third antenna element 26 (dashed line). The first antenna element 13 is interconnected with a plurality of further antenna elements 24, 26 (including the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26). Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements 24, 26 (including the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26) and the first antenna element 13 form a resonant antenna structure.

[0133] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection area 22. The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23. A plurality of further antenna elements 24, 26 (including the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26) interconnect the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 3b, the first branch 18 has the first feeder 28 of the antenna structure at the first feed area 32, and the second branch 20 has the first feeder 28 of the antenna structure at the second feed area 38. Two power feeder 30. The first feeding area 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch. The second feeding area 38 is provided along the first end 42 of the second branch. The first power feeder 28 of the antenna structure and the second power feeder 30 of the antenna structure are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed part of the antenna may be connected to the ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed part of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, for example to the transceiver or radio device in the wireless communication unit .

[0135] The first axis 301 and the second axis 302 divide the plurality of additional antenna elements 24, 26 including the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26 into first segments 54, 56 and second segments. Segments 74, 76 and third segments 84, 86. The second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 extend from the first connection area 22. The third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 extend from the second connection area 23. The first segments 54, 56 are linear segments, for example substantially linear segments. The first sections 54 and 56 connect the second sections 74 and 76 with the third sections 84 and 86.

[0136] The first antenna element 13, the second antenna element 24, and the third antenna element 26 wrap around each other so that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the third The second segments 76 of the antenna element 26 enclose each other

The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 are wrapped around each other.

[0137] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a zigzag shape and/or form. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a zigzag shape and/or form. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a spiral shape and/or form. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a spiral and/or form. It can be seen that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 surround each other so that the first antenna element 13 The one branch 18, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 follow the same or similar pattern. The first branch 18, the second segment 74 and the second segment 76 are co-aligned so that the current vector of any current flowing through the antenna element will be co-aligned. It can be seen that the distance between the first branch 18, the second segment 74 and the second segment 76 along most of the wrapped segments/elements (for example, along 80% of the wrapped segments/elements) has Same or similar size. The distance between the first branch 18, the second segment 74, and the second segment 76 may be uniform along most of the wrapped segments/elements (eg, along 80% of the wrapped segments/elements). After making appropriate changes, the same applies to the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26.

[0138] FIG. 3b shows the shape and/or form of the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 surrounding each other The shape and/or form surrounding the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 are mirror images or similar to each other. Alternatively, the shape and/or form in which the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are folded with each other may be different from that of the first branch. The second branch 20 of the antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 have a shape and/or form that surround each other.

[0139] As shown in the figure, the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are in the same shape and/or form. The arrangement is such that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 follow the same path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in the same shape and/or form, so that the first antenna element 13 The second branch 20 of the second antenna element 24, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 follow the same path. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are provided with a uniform spacing along at least a part of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 are provided with a uniform spacing along at least a part of the path.

[0140] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates another exemplary antenna 10 according to the present disclosure. The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17. The plurality of further antenna elements includes a second antenna element 14, a third antenna element 16 and a fourth antenna element 17. The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20 interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection area 22. The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23. A plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17) interconnect the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23. The first antenna element 13 and a plurality of other antenna elements 14, 16, 17

(Including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) are interconnected. Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) and the first antenna element 13 form a resonant antenna structure.

[0141] Each of the additional antenna elements (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) has approximately the same length.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) are arranged in different planes. A plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) are connected in parallel.

[0143] It should be emphasized that the connection areas 22, 23 may have shapes and ranges configured according to the antenna configuration. The connection areas may be dotted areas, they may be elongated areas, may have a length such that each of a plurality of additional antenna elements can be connected in the connection area, and so on.

[0144] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates another example of an exemplary antenna 10 according to the present disclosure. The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17. The plurality of further antenna elements includes a second antenna element 14, a third antenna element 16 and a fourth antenna element 17. The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20 interconnected with the wireless communication unit 8. The first branch 18 includes a first connection area 22. The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23. A plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17) interconnect the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23. The first antenna element 13 is interconnected with a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17). Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) may form a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13.

[0145] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 is arranged in a zigzag form and/or shape. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 is arranged in a zigzag form and/or shape. As shown in FIG. 5, the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 are formed in different forms and/or shapes. Alternatively, the first branch 18 and the second branch 20 may have a similar form and/or shape. The form and/or shape of the first branch 18 and/or the second branch 20 may be any shape and/or form. In some embodiments, the first branch 18 and the second branch 20 have the same or similar length. In some embodiments, the first branch 18 and the second branch 20 have different lengths.

[0146] The first branch 18 has a first power feeder 28 at the first power feed region 32, and the second branch 20 has a second power feeder 30 at the second power feed region 38. The first feeding area 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18. The second feeding area 38 is provided along the first end 42 of the second branch 20. The first power feeder 28 of the antenna 13 and the second power feeder 30 of the antenna 13 are connected to the wireless communication unit 8. One feed part of the antenna may be connected to the ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed part of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, for example to the transceiver or radio device in the wireless communication unit .

[0147] Each of the additional antenna elements (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) has approximately the same length.

[0148] A plurality of additional antenna elements (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) are connected in parallel.

[0149] The first connection area 22 is separated from the first feeding area 32 by a first distance 43, which is measured along the first antenna element 13, for example along the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13. The second connection area 23 is separated from the second feeding area 38 by a second distance 48. The second distance 48 is measured along the first antenna element 13, for example along the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13.

measuring. The antenna 10 is configured to transmit and receive electromagnetic fields having a transceiving wavelength (λ). The first distance 43 and/or the second distance 48 is between one-eighth (1/8) and three-eighth (3/8) of the transmitting and receiving wavelength (λ). As shown in the figure, the first distance 43 is different from the second distance 48. Alternatively, the first distance 43 may be equal to the second distance 48, for example, the same as the second distance 48.

[0150] Each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16, 17 has approximately the same length. The length of each antenna element, such as the length of the first antenna element 13 and the length of the plurality of other antenna elements 14, 16, 17 corresponds to half the length of the transmission and reception wavelength (λ).

[0151] FIGS. 6a and 6b show an exemplary hearing instrument 2 with an antenna 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown as being provided on a flexible plastic substrate 21 (gray line). The flexible plastic substrate 21 including the antenna 10 is shown as being wrapped around the hearing instrument 2, for example around the behind-the-ear hearing instrument.

[0152] The hearing instrument 2 has a first side 50 and a second side 52. Furthermore, the hearing instrument 2 has a third side 58. In Figures 6a and 6b, the hearing instrument 2 is presented as viewed from two different angles. FIG. 6a shows the first side 50 and the third side 58, while FIG. 6b shows the second side 52 and the third side 58. In addition, the hearing instrument has a top side 60. The top side 60 is the side that generally (eg, substantially) points upward and/or backward when the hearing instrument 2 is used by a user who is sitting or standing upright.

[0153] The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 (dash-dotted line) and a plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16 (solid line and dashed line). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 and 16 forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13. The plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 includes a second antenna element 14 and a third antenna element 16. Alternatively, the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 may include additional antenna elements, for example a fourth antenna element, for example a fifth antenna element.

[0154] Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2. Therefore, a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 extend on the top side 60 of the hearing instrument 2. The first side 50 is opposite to the second side 52.

[0155] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 includes a first connection area 22. The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23. The first branch 18 extends along the first side 50. The first connection area 22 is provided at the first side 50. The second branch 20 extends along the second side 52. The second connection area 23 is provided at the second side 52. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23.

[0156] As shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b, the first branch 18 has a first feeder 28 of an antenna structure at the first feed area 32, and the second branch 20 has an antenna at the second feed area 38. The structure of the second feeder 30. The first feeding area 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18. The second feeding area 38 is provided along the first end 42 of the second branch 20. The first power feeder 28 of the antenna structure and the second power feeder 30 of the antenna structure are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown).

[0157] Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52. Therefore, at least the first section 54, 56 of each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side of the hearing instrument 2 52. The first sections 54 and 56 extend along the top side 60. The first segments 54, 56 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are linear segments. The midpoints 64, 66 of each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) are arranged at the top side 60, and are therefore arranged to extend from the first side 50 to the second At the first segment 54, 56 of each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 of the side 52. The midpoints 64, 66 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) are along each of the other antenna elements 14, 16 from the first connection area 22 and the first connection area 22 and the first connection area. The distances between the two connecting regions 23 are respectively the same (for example, approximately or substantially the same) positions. The midpoint may be, for example, at about a quarter of the wavelength of each connection area. [0158] The antenna 10 is configured such that the current flowing through the antenna 10 has the largest amplitude at or near the top side. Therefore, days

The wire 10 is configured so that the current flowing through the antenna 10 extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 during the transmission of the electromagnetic field. The other antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the second antenna element 14) Each of the three antenna elements 16) has the largest amplitude in or near the first segment 54, 56.

[0159] The first branch 18 extending along the first side 50 and the second branch 20 extending along the second side 52 have similar shapes and/or forms, such as similar tortuous shapes and/or forms. Alternatively, the first branch 18 extending along the first side 50 and the second branch 20 extending along the second side 52 may have different shapes and/or forms.

[0160] Each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) has a second segment extending from the first connection area 22 along the first side 50 of the hearing instrument 2 74, 76. Each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) has a third segment 84, 86 extending from the second connection area 23 along the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 .

[0161] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a zigzag form and/or shape. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a zigzag form and/or shape.

[0162] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with a uniform spacing along at least a part of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with a uniform spacing along at least a part of the path.

[0163] FIGS. 7a and 7b show an exemplary hearing instrument 2 having an antenna 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown as being wrapped or folded around a hearing instrument 2 (for example, a behind-the-ear hearing instrument).

[0164] The hearing instrument 2 has a first side 50 and a second side 52. In addition, the hearing instrument 2 has a third side 58. In Figures 7a and 7b, the hearing instrument 2 is presented as viewed from two different angles. FIG. 7a shows the first side 50 and the third side 58, while FIG. 7b shows the second side 52 and the third side 58. In addition, the hearing instrument has a top side 60. The top side 60 is the side that is generally (eg, substantially) directed upward when the hearing instrument 2 is used by a user who is sitting or standing upright.

[0165] The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 (solid line) and a plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16 (dotted and dashed lines). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 and 16 forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13. The plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 includes a second antenna element 14 and a third antenna element 16. Alternatively, the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 may include additional antenna elements, for example a fourth antenna element, for example a fifth antenna element.

[0166] Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2. Therefore, a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 extend on the top side 60 of the hearing instrument 2. The first side 50 is opposite to the second side 52.

[0167] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 includes a first connection area 22. The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23. The first branch 18 extends along the first side 50. The first connection area 22 is provided at the first side 50. The second branch 20 extends along the second side 52. The second connection area 23 is provided at the second side 52. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23.

[0168] As shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b, the first branch 18 has a first feeder 28 of an antenna structure at the first feed area 32, and the second branch 20 has an antenna at the second feed area 38. The structure of the second feeder 30. The first feeding area 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18. The second feeding area 38 is provided along the first end 42 of the second branch 20. The first feeder 28 of the antenna structure and the second feeder 30 of the antenna structure are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed part of the antenna can be connected to the ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed part of the antenna can be

Connect to a wireless communication unit, such as a transceiver or a radio device in the wireless communication unit.

[0169] Each of the plurality of additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52. Therefore, at least the first section 54, 56 of each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side of the hearing instrument 2 52. The first sections 54 and 56 extend along the top side 60. The first segments 54, 56 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are linear segments. The midpoints 64, 66 of each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) are arranged at the top side 60, and are therefore arranged to extend from the first side 50 to the second At the first segment 54, 56 of the antenna element of the side 52. The midpoints 64, 66 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) are along each of the other antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14). And the position where the distance between the third antenna element 16 and the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 is the same (for example, approximately or substantially the same). The midpoint may be, for example, at about a quarter of the wavelength of each connection area.

[0170] The antenna 10 is configured such that the current flowing through the antenna 10 has the largest amplitude at or near the top side 60. Therefore, the antenna 10 is configured such that during the emission of the electromagnetic field, the current flowing through the antenna 10 flows in each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 extending from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 (including The second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) have the largest amplitude in or near the first segments 54, 56.

[0171] Each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) has a second segment extending from the first connection area 22 along the first side 50 of the hearing instrument 2 74, 76. Each of the additional antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) has a third segment 84, 86 extending from the second connection area 23 along the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 .

[0172] The first antenna element and the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) surround each other.

[0173] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a zigzag form and/or shape. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a zigzag form and/or shape.

[0174] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a coiled form, for example a spiral form, for example a spiral form, for example a coiled form, for example a twisted form Wait. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a coiled form, such as a spiral form, such as a spiral form, such as a coiled form, such as a twisted form, etc.

[0175] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in the same coiled form, so that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second Segments 74, 76 follow the same path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in the same coiled form, so that the second branch 20 and the third segment 84 of the first antenna element 13 , 86 follows the same path.

[0176] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with a uniform spacing along at least a part of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the other antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with a uniform spacing along at least a part of the path.

[0177] FIG. 8 schematically shows an antenna 10 configured for an in-ear hearing instrument (not shown). Using a periodic bounding box 100, FIG. 8 shows a 2D patterned antenna 10 that is configured to wrap around a cylindrical structure to obtain a 3D structure. The boundary points 101, 102, 103, 104 at one end of the periodic bounding box are connected to their respective corresponding points 101', 102', 103', 104' at the other end of the periodic bounding box 100 to create a 3D structure. The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13, a second antenna element

Piece 24 and third antenna element 26. The first antenna element 13, the second antenna element 24, and the third antenna element 26 are all connected in the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23, respectively. The antenna 10 is fed through the first power feeder 28 at the first power feed region 32 and through the second power feeder 30 at the second power feed region 38, respectively.

[0178] FIG. 9 shows an antenna 10 configured for an in-ear hearing instrument. This figure shows an antenna 10 having a 3D structure with a first antenna element 13 and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17. The antenna 10 is configured, for example, to surround the battery of the hearing instrument 2 and/or the electronics inside the hearing instrument 2.

[0179] Although specific features have been shown and described, it should be understood that they are not intended to limit the claimed invention, and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that they can be used without departing from the claimed invention. Various changes and modifications are made under the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the drawings and drawings are considered to be illustrative and not restrictive. The claimed invention is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents.